Cape Kidnappers, Napier

Cape Kidnappers, a dramatic headland located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, is a site of both natural beauty and historic significance. Situated near the city of Napier, this cape is renowned for its striking cliffs that rise steeply from the Pacific Ocean, forming a natural fortress that has stood sentinel over the sea for centuries.

The cape received its name from an incident in 1769 when local Māori attempted to kidnap a crew member from the HMS Endeavour during Captain James Cook's voyage. Despite its somewhat foreboding name, Cape Kidnappers is now a place of adventure and discovery, attracting visitors from around the world.

One of the cape's most notable characteristics is its gannet colony, which is one of the largest and most accessible mainland colonies in the world. From September to April, thousands of Australasian gannets nest and breed on the plateau's rocky outcrops, offering a unique wildlife experience. The gannet reserve can be reached by an overland tour, which traverses the rugged landscape, or by hiking along the beach at low tide, an activity that allows visitors to take in the stunning geological formations along the way.

In addition to its natural history, Cape Kidnappers is also home to an award-winning golf course, considered one of the greatest golf experiences in the world. The course is perched on the clifftops, providing golfers with challenging play and panoramic views of the ocean.